How do you define vulnerability?
Earlier, on social media I shared a wonderful video by noted research professor, Dr. Brene Brown, where she talked about the “Power Of Vulnerability”. In this video, she touched on the lessons and strengths that vulnerability gives us.
In previous emails, I have discussed what I have learned about vulnerability. I’ve talked about how vulnerability is the most unique among the 8 unpleasant feelings, and also how vulnerability plays a particular role in the experience of emotional strength.
The relationship that vulnerability has with other emotions, is of a dual nature, such that vulnerability can be considered both your greatest emotional strength and likewise be associated with emotional weakness.
“I believe that we are at our greatest emotional strength
when we make the choice to be vulnerable”
My understanding and research on vulnerability and the other 7 unpleasant emotions, are not absolute, nor should they be. In my 30 plus years of work as a psychologist and professor, I know that life presents you with a multitude of teachers. How you feel these unpleasant emotions, how you choose to respond, and how those experiences mold you, are yours and yours alone.
I would like you to reach out to me, whether it be through email, Facebook, Instagram, etc., and I would love to hear your definition of vulnerability.
What moments in your life make you feel vulnerable? In your own words, how does vulnerability make you feel stronger? Or does it make you feel weaker?
My hope, is that by defining your own vulnerability, and sharing it with me, you will develop greater feelings of capability and resourcefulness.
Sending my best,
Dr. Joan Rosenberg
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1 Comment. Leave new
Hi. I recently came across your book, ’90 Seconds to a life you love’. I wouldn’t really say it was by chance. For the past two years I’ve been contemplating a lot on emotions in general. I grew up in a home where emotions were never really expressed. The only time I had seen any were in violent instances. Anyway to cut a long story short. I discovered what I call a ‘secret place’. Well some people might refer to it as meditation or mindfulness. For me a secret place is that realm where I pour out all my unpleasant feelings to God. At least I discovered that space as my nakedness arena. Where I could freely own my unpleasant feelings. To my surprise I began noticing that I was beginning to embrace myself more. Be more understanding and less critical of myself. As well as learning to handle and express my feelings better. So all this aroused my curiosity on this subject. And for the past two years I’ve been wondering a lot about it. Until I came across your video on Tedtalk where you mentioned your book. It is definitely one of the most impactful books I’ve ever read. Well I first read it but now am working through it.